Yes, Salzburg is absolutely worth visiting in winter, especially for its magical Christmas markets, festive atmosphere, music, cozy cafes, and stunning snow-dusted Alpine views, offering a fairytale experience with fewer crowds after the holidays for a quieter cultural immersion.
As a city that resembles a fairytale village (complete with a looming castle on a hill), a city that appreciates the glitz and beauty of a winter concert, a city that is home to fabulously cozy cafes, and–of course–a city that is home to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe (and therefore the world), winter is ...
There are more than enough Salzburg Christmas markets to keep you busy, whether you're just here on a day trip from Vienna or have a few days to soak up this fairytale town in all its glory. With roasted chestnuts in the air, twinkly lights everywhere, and gorgeous views around every corner, it's pure magic.
What is the best city to visit in Austria in winter?
Austria offers many charming cities in winter for an inspiring getaway. Vienna captivates with its coffee-house culture, museums and Christmas markets, Salzburg with baroque flair and musical tradition. Innsbruck combines urban life with Alpine panoramas, while Graz surprises with design, cuisine and a southern touch.
For Salzburg, 2 to 3 days is ideal for exploring the main sights like the Old Town and Fortress, with 3 or more days allowing for relaxed pacing or popular day trips to Hallstatt, Berchtesgaden, or Untersberg. A day trip can see essentials, but staying overnight reveals the magical evening atmosphere; 2 nights allows for a full day plus a quieter morning/evening.
Winter in Austria Under $1.4k —Things to do during winter in Vienna, Salzburg, Hallstatt & Innsbruck
What is the prettiest city in Austria?
A picturesque city in the heart of Austria, Salzburg is a must-visit destination for every traveler. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture and breathtaking natural beauty, Salzburg is a city that has something to offer for everyone.
Is it better to go to Salzburg or Vienna for Christmas?
However, despite the cold, Vienna with its Christmas lights and markets is magical in December. The best time to visit Salzburg is in late summer and autumn as this is when the crowds have tapered off and you can enjoy the beautiful gardens in comfortable temperatures.
What is the most beautiful Christmas town in Austria?
St Wolfgang is famed as Austria's advent town – the most festive place in the whole country. And that's some boast. Alongside Germany, Austria has some of the most popular Christmas markets in the world and Salzburg and Innsbruck are thought to be the most spectacular.
While many German towns are festive, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is widely considered Germany's ultimate Christmas Town because it feels like a year-round fairytale, complete with medieval walls, cobblestone streets, numerous Christmas shops, and the famous year-round Christmas Museum (Käthe Wohlfahrt) and Reiterlesmarkt. Other top contenders include Dresden for its historic Striezelmarkt and multiple markets, and Quedlinburg for its enchanting medieval atmosphere and Advent calendar.
Hat, gloves, and scarf: these can be the same that you bring for skiing if you're comfortable wearing them to Christmas markets or for walking around. Waterproof boots: These are useful for walking around the city as well in transit to ski destinations. I've taken running shoes in the past and ended up with wet shoes.
Is Salzburg really expensive to visit? Yes, Salzburg is expensive. But it's only a little more expensive than Vienna and other places in Austria and not expensive compared to cities like Munich or Paris. Salzburg's average hotel room price is €150,- per night.
Weather in Salzburg in January. January hits the bottom: It can be terribly cold with temperatures going down to minus 10 or even minus 20 at night, the coldest month of the year - at least in Salzburg.
Solvang has been named the #1 Best Christmas Town in the U.S. in the 2025 TZR (The Zoe Report) Jet-Set Readers' Choice Awards, earning the top spot among festive destinations nationwide. Solvang has been named the #1 Best Christmas To...
Innsbruck may not be as popular for Christmas markets as Salzburg or Vienna, but it's absolutely worth adding to your European Christmas market itinerary! Beautiful Christmas markets and festive light displays against a snowy mountain backdrop adds to the holiday magic.
For Salzburg, 2 to 3 days is ideal for exploring the main sights like the Old Town and Fortress, with 3 or more days allowing for relaxed pacing or popular day trips to Hallstatt, Berchtesgaden, or Untersberg. A day trip can see essentials, but staying overnight reveals the magical evening atmosphere; 2 nights allows for a full day plus a quieter morning/evening.
These things to do in Austria gets you the best out of winter!
Christmas Markets. Austria is famous for its festive Christmas markets, where you can sip hot mulled wine (Glühwein), snack on roasted chestnuts, and shop for handmade gifts. ...
Salzburg's Environs. The eight Salzburg city villages – Anthering, Elixhausen, Elsbethen, Eugendorf, Grödig, Großgmain, Hallwang, and Wals-Siezenheim – have a lot to offer: beautiful nature, numerous recreational opportunities, and historic buildings.
Some of the most beautiful places in the world include: 1. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam - Stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. 2. Santorini, Greece - Picturesque whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches.
